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Ten years ago, Sara Blakely was selling fax machines while working on her pet project -- a line of body-shaping hosiery -- on her lunch breaks and weekends. Today, Spanx has grown into an international brand, a favorite of celebrities and stylists alike who depend on its miraculous waist-cinching abilities.

In addition to running her business, Blakely is also a mom-on-the-go. Her handbag contents are packed with kid-friendly yogurt snacks and pacifiers as well as luxe beauty essentials. Naturally, she also carries her business card -- redeemable for one Spanx product -- in case she spots a little "VPL" on the sidewalk.

1. Checkbook: "Yes, I still write checks."

2. Flip Video: "I want to be able to capture anything and everything!"